BrightStar Care of Grosse Pointe and Macomb Celebrates Second Anniversary; Serves More than 150 Families

Aug. 1, 2013 -- Grosse Pointe, Mich. – BrightStar Care of Grosse Pointe / Macomb County celebrates its second anniversary today, having cared for more than 150 elderly, disabled adults and special needs children in their own homes.

Families have relied on BrightStar nurses and caregivers to help their aging loved ones live with dignity while remaining in their own homes. In many cases, BrightStar helped those returning home from hospitals or rehabilitation facilities regain their independence.

During this period, BrightStar also has worked closely with hospice organizations, providing round-the-clock comfort and support to clients in their final days.

BrightStar, which provides personal, companion and skilled nursing care, was opened by Anne Marie Gattari of Grosse Pointe Woods, Mich., in August 2011 after caring for her own elderly parents.

“Caring for the most vulnerable in the comforting surroundings of their own homes is the most gratifying work I’ve ever done,” said Gattari, who left a management position at Ford Motor Company to purchase the BrightStar franchise and open her own business one year after her father died. He was 90.

“When I speak about my personal experience of caring for my own elderly parents to new BrightStar employees, I see a lot of nods and soft smiles around the table,” Gattari said. “Our caregivers understand that helping someone in the final years of their lives is not a job – it’s a privilege.”

During its first two years, BrightStar was awarded The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for accreditation by demonstrating compliance with stringent national standards for home health care quality and safety for the elderly and disabled.

The east-side home care agency underwent a rigorous on-site survey to ensure compliance with standards of care specific to the needs of elderly clients, including infection prevention and control and fall prevention – two of the most common reasons the elderly are hospitalized.

Joint Commission accreditation is especially important in Michigan because the state does not require a license to practice private duty home care, Gattari said. “This designation gives families peace of mind that BrightStar provides the highest quality of care to their loved ones,” she said.

BrightStar caregivers and nurses are bonded, insured and, where appropriate, certified or licensed by the State of Michigan. They are CPR certified. Depending upon their assignments, they undergo specialized training by the Alzheimer’s Association, Brain Injury Association of Michigan, ALS of Michigan and the Autism Society.

BrightStar Care serves families in the Grosse Pointe communities and Macomb County. It is part of a nationwide network of franchised agencies providing full-service medical and non-medical care to clients in their own homes.

For a complimentary home assessment, call 586-279-3610 or visit http://www.brightstarcare.com/grosse-pointesoutheast-macomb/

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